What material is most commonly used for custom provisional coverage in dental procedures?

Self-cured acrylic resin is the most commonly used material for custom provisional coverage in dental procedures due to its favorable properties. This material is often preferred because it can be easily manipulated and shaped to fit the contours of the tooth and surrounding gum tissue, providing both comfort and aesthetic appeal during the provisional phase.

Self-cured acrylic resin offers the advantage of being quick-setting, allowing dental professionals to create a custom provisional in a relatively short amount of time. This is particularly advantageous in clinical settings where time is of the essence, as the dentist often requires immediate restoration for the patient following tooth preparation.

Additionally, self-cured acrylic resin provides sufficient strength and durability for temporary uses, ensuring that the provisional coverage remains intact while the permanent restoration is being fabricated. It also allows for easy adjustments if necessary, which can be crucial for achieving optimal fit and function.

While the other materials mentioned have their applications and benefits, they are not as commonly used for custom provisional coverage as self-cured acrylic resin. Polycarbonate resins might be used for specific cases, but they do not offer the same level of customization. Composite resins are typically reserved for permanent restorations due to their properties, and glass ionomer materials, although used for various purposes in dentistry, do not